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Abstract:

Various embodiments of removable user interfaces, electronic computing
devices, and systems are described. In one embodiment, an apparatus
includes a body having a bend and a user interface area, a connector
adapted to couple to a corresponding connector on an electronic device,
and a plurality of conductive elements. The bend enables the user
interface area to wrap around a portion of the electronic device when the
connector is coupled to the corresponding connector on the electronic
device. In another embodiment, a portable electronic system includes a
removable user interface and an electronic computing device having a
display surface, where the removable user interface is couplable to the
electronic computing device such that the removable user interface is
disposed over at least a part of the display surface.

Claims:

1. An apparatus adapted to be operatively coupled to an electronic
device, the apparatus comprising: a body having an engagement end, a user
interface area, and a bend located between the engagement end and the
user interface area; a connector located at the engagement end, the
connector adapted to couple to a corresponding connector on the
electronic device; a user interface element carried by the body in the
user interface area, the user interface element operable to perform at
least one of: receiving a user input and displaying information; and a
plurality of conductive elements coupled between the user interface
element and the connector for communicating electrical signals between
the user interface element and the connector, wherein the bend enables
the user interface area to wrap around a portion of the electronic device
when the connector is coupled to the corresponding connector on the
electronic device.

2. The device of claim 1 wherein the user interface area of the body is
transparent.

3. The device of claim 1 wherein the connector is a 30-pin connector, a
USB connector, a firewire connector, an audio jack, a serial connector, a
parallel connector, a monitor connector, or a magnetic connector.

4. The device of claim 1 wherein the connector includes: an upper
surface; a lower surface arranged opposite the upper surface; contact
electrodes arranged on the upper surface for establishing an electrical
connection with the electronic computing device when the connector is
coupled to the electronic computing device in a first orientation; and
contact electrodes arranged on the lower surface for establishing an
electrical connection with the electronic computing device when the
connector is coupled to the electronic computing device in a second
orientation.

5. The device of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of tactile
feedback elements provided proximate to the user interface element for
providing tactile feedback to a user.

6. The device of claim 5 wherein the tactile feedback elements include at
least one protrusion or cutout.

7. The device of claim 5 wherein the tactile feedback elements are
located on at least one surface of the body.

8. The device of claim 7 wherein the tactile feedback elements are
located on opposite surfaces of the body.

9. The device of claim 1 wherein the user interface element is an
electronic display.

11. The device of claim 1 wherein the user interface element is a touch
pad operable to both display information and receive a user input.

12. The device of claim 1 wherein the bend includes at least one of a
curved portion and a straight portion such that the bend is approximately
180 degrees.

13. The device of claim 1 wherein the bend includes at least one
rotatable element for rotatably coupling the user interface element to
the connector.

14. A removable clip for providing a removable user interface to a
portable electronic computing device having a display surface and a rear
surface arranged opposite the display surface, the clip comprising: a
body including an interface portion and an engagement end, the interface
portion including first and second surfaces opposing one another and
having a plurality of touch-sensitive regions; a plurality of tactile
feedback elements arranged on or formed by the first surface, each
tactile feedback element being arranged over one of the plurality of
touch-sensitive regions, a connector located at the engagement end for
mechanically and electrically coupling the body to the electronic
computing device; and a plurality of conductive traces extending within
the body to the connector and operable to communicate electrical signals
indicative of user-engagement with the touch-sensitive regions to the
electronic computing device; wherein the clip is operable to communicate
the electrical signals to the electronic computing device when the
connector engages the electronic computing device such that the first
surface is exposed to receive user input and the second surface is
oriented to face the display surface of the electronic computing device.

15. The removable clip of claim 14 wherein the clip is operable to
removably attach the electronic computing device to an object when the
connector engages the electronic computing device such that the second
surface is oriented to face the rear surface of the electronic computing
device.

16. A portable electronic system comprising: an electronic computing
device including a device connector, a display surface, and a rear
surface, the rear surface being arranged opposite the display surface;
and a removable user interface including: a body having an engagement
end; an interface connector located at the engagement end for mating with
the device connector so as to couple the body to the electronic computing
device; a user interface element for displaying information or receiving
a user input; and a conductive element extending between the user
interface element and the connector for communicating an electrical
signal between the user interface element and the electronic computing
device, wherein the removable user interface is couplable to the
electronic computing device such that the removable user interface is
disposed over at least a part of the display surface.

17. The portable electronic system of claim 16 wherein the removable user
interface further includes a plurality of tactile feedback elements, and
the electronic computing device is operable to display icons on the
display surface at locations corresponding to the plurality of tactile
feedback elements.

18. The portable electronic system of claim 17 wherein the electronic
computing device is operable to select a displayed icon in response to a
user engagement with a corresponding tactile feedback element.

19. The portable electronic system of claim 16 wherein the connector is
configured so that the removable user interface is couplable to the
electronic computing device in a plurality of different orientations.

20. The portable electronic system of claim 16 wherein the removable user
interface further includes at least one rotatable element located between
the interface connector and the user interface element, wherein the
rotatable element is operable to rotate the removable user interface from
an orientation where the removable user interface is proximate the
display surface of the electronic computing device to an orientation
where the removable user interface is proximate the rear surface of the
electronic computing device.

21. A method comprising: monitoring a connector of an electronic
computing device; identifying a removable user interface when the user
interface is coupled to the connector; determining an orientation of the
removable user interface when the user interface is coupled to the
connector; and displaying information on an electronic display of the
electronic computing device based on the determined orientation of the
removable user interface.

22. The method of claim 21 wherein displaying information includes
displaying icons on the electronic display in locations corresponding to
locations of tactile feedback elements included with the removable user
interface.

23. The method of claim 21 wherein determining an orientation includes
detecting a rotation of the removable user interface relative to the
electronic computing device.

24. The method of claim 21 further comprising detecting a user engagement
with a surface of the removable user interface.

25. The method of claim 24 further comprising executing a function in
response to the detected user engagement.

Description:

BACKGROUND

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates generally to removable clips with
user interfaces. More particularly, the present invention relates to a
clip that provides a user interface to an electronic computing device and
is operable to selectively attach the device to an object.

[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0004] Various types of clips are provided today with portable electronic
computing devices such as media players (e.g., music player or video
player). The clips today typically serve only one function, which is to
clip the device to various objects such as a person's clothing. As a
result of such typical purposes of clips, clips usually only operate to
mechanically connect the electronic computing device to another object.
In some cases, the clips are used with electronic computing devices
having electronic displays. In such cases, the clips are necessarily
provided on a surface of the device other than the surface having the
display, since doing otherwise would result in the clip undesirably
interfering with the display. Often, the clip is physically integrated
with the electronic computing device such that the clip and device form a
single unit. Such a unit necessarily has a thicker width than the
electronic computing device alone, which is in many cases disadvantageous
for marketing purposes.

[0005] While today's clips provide a valuable function for portable
electronic computing devices, they are deficient in that the real estate
used by the clips is underutilized in that the clips are only used to
attach electronic computing devices to other objects. Such
underutilization is particularly undesirable as technology continues to
miniaturize since even the smallest amount of real estate used by a
device is often considered burdensome by a consumer.

SUMMARY

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention generally concern systems,
apparatus's, and methods for providing a removable clip with a user
interface to electronic computing devices. In one embodiment, the user
interface may be configured to operate as a clip, thereby enabling the
electronic computing device to be removably attached to an object such as
a person's clothing. The user interface may also be operable to receive
user inputs (via, e.g., a touch pad) and thereby control an electronic
computing device. In some embodiments, the user interface may be
transparent. As a result, information such as icons displayed on the
electronic computing device may be visible to the user via the
transparent user interface. The electronic computing device may then be
responsive to user engagement with the clip based on locations of the
user engagement and their correspondence to the icons displayed on the
electronic computing device. In this fashion, a portable user interface
may be provided that significantly enhances the functionality and
usability of existing devices, and in some cases may also advantageously
operate as a clip.

[0007] In one embodiment, the user interface may be configured to operate
as a clip, and the user interface may be operable to display information
(via, e.g., an LCD). By coupling the clip to an electronic computing
device, the electronic computing device may thereafter display
information on the clip via the user interface. In some embodiments, the
display capability of the clip may be combined with the ability to
receive user inputs (e.g., a touch pad may be layered over an LCD). In
this fashion, a significant amount of functionality may be added to
existing devices, and in some cases the device may also advantageously
operate as a clip.

[0008] Various other features may also provide numerous other advantages
over the state of the art. For example, the user interfaces may include
tactile feedback elements such as rubber domes. In this fashion, a user
may be able to easily cause the electronic device to perform a function
without visually seeing the device or user interface.

[0009] For a fuller understanding of the nature and advantages of
embodiments of the present invention, reference should be made to the
ensuing detailed description and accompanying drawings. Other aspects,
objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the
drawings and detailed description that follows. However, the scope of the
invention will be fully apparent from the recitations of the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates a portable electronic system according to a
first embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a portable electronic
system having a removable user interface coupled to an electronic
computing device in a first orientation.

[0012] FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of the portable electronic system
shown in FIG. 2A.

[0013] FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a portable electronic
system having a removable user interface coupled to an electronic
computing device in a second orientation.

[0014] FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of the portable electronic system
shown in FIG. 3A.

[0015] FIG. 4A shows a removable user interface having a side profile
according to a first embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 4B shows a removable user interface having a side profile
according to a second embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 4C shows a removable user interface having a side profile
according to a third embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 4D shows a removable user interface having a side profile
according to a fourth embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 4E shows a removable user interface having a side profile
according to a fifth embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 5A shows a removable user interface having tactile feedback
elements according to a first embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 5B shows a removable user interface having tactile feedback
elements according to a second embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 5C shows a removable user interface having tactile feedback
elements according to a third embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 6A shows a top surface of a removable user interface having a
according to a first embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 6B shows a top surface of a removable user interface according
to a second embodiment.

[0026]FIG. 6c shows a top surface of a removable user interface according
to a third embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 6D shows a top surface of a removable user interface according
to a fourth embodiment.

[0028]FIG. 7A shows a cross-section of a plug according to a first
embodiment.

[0029]FIG. 7B shows a cross-section of a plug according to a second
embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 7C shows a cross-section of a plug according to a third
embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 8A shows a cross section of a receptacle connector according
to an embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 8B shows a cross section of a plug suitable to connect with
the receptacle connector of FIG. 8A in multiple orientations.

[0033] FIG. 9A shows a profile view of a removable user interface
according to a first embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 9B shows a profile view of a removable user interface
according to a second embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 9C shows a profile view of a removable user interface
according to a third embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 10 illustrates a portable electronic system according to a
second embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 11A shows a first portion of a method of operating an
electronic computing device according to an embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 11B shows a second portion of a method of operating an
electronic computing device according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to
FIGS. 1 to 11B. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate
that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures
is for explanatory purposes only as embodiments of the invention extend
beyond these limited embodiments.

[0040] FIG. 1 illustrates a portable electronic system 100 according to a
first embodiment. Portable electronic system 100 includes an electronic
computing device 110 and a removable user interface 150.

[0041] According to this embodiment, electronic computing device 110 is a
portable media player. For example, electronic computing device 110 may
be an iPod as manufactured by Apple, Inc. of Cupertino, Calif.; a
Microsoft Zune as manufactured by Microsoft Corp. of Redmond, Wash.; a
Creative Zen as manufactured by Creative Technology Ltd. of Singapore;
etc. According to other embodiments, electronic computing device 110 is
not a portable media player. Rather, electronic computing device 110 may
be any portable electronic computing device with a receptacle connector
for establishing an electrical connection with other devices. For
example, electronic computing device 110 may be a cellular phone, a
personal digital assistant (PDA), a camera, a game player, a laptop
computer, a netbook, a tablet, a booklet, a slate, a convertible
notebook, etc.

[0042] Electronic computing device 110 includes a number of surfaces. In
one embodiment, electronic computing device 110 includes front surface
112, a rear surface 114, and side surfaces 116. Side surfaces 116 are
separate from and arranged perpendicular to front surface 112 and rear
surface 114. However, such an arrangement is not necessary. For example,
one or more of side surfaces 112 and rear surface 114 may form a
continuous surface. In one embodiment, front surface 112 is arranged
opposite to rear surface 114. Front surface 112 may be parallel to rear
surface 114, but may alternatively be angled with respect to rear surface
114.

[0043] According to one embodiment, front surface 112 includes a digital
display 118 for displaying information. Digital display 118 could be any
suitable display for performing such operation, such as a liquid crystal
display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, etc.

[0044] In some embodiments, front surface 112 includes an input element
120. Input element 120 may be operable to receive user inputs. For
example, input element 120 may show icons for play, pause, fast forward,
rewind, volume up, and/or volume down. When a user engages any of these
elements by, e.g., touch or depression, electronic computing device 110
may respond by performing the requested function, such as increasing the
volume of a song or other media.

[0045] In other embodiments, front surface 112 includes both digital
display 118 and input element 120. Front surface 112 may include more
than one digital display 118 and/or more than one input element 120.
Digital display 118 and/or input element 120 need not be provided on
front surface 112. Rather, they may be provided on any suitable surface.
For example, one or more input elements 120 may be provided on a side
surface 116.

[0046] Electronic computing device 110 also includes a receptacle
connector 122. Receptacle connector 122 may be any suitable connector for
establishing an electrical connection with other electronic devices,
where the electrical connection is operable to communicate information
between electronic computing device 110 and the electronic device coupled
thereto via receptacle connector 122. In one embodiment, receptacle
connector 122 is a 30-pin connector such as that described in U.S. Pat.
No. 6,776,660, which is commonly assigned and incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety for all purposes. In another embodiment,
receptacle connector 122 is a magnetic connector such as that described
in U.S. Pat. No. 7,311,526, which is commonly assigned and incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. In other
embodiments, however, receptacle connector 122 may be any other suitable
connector for establishing an electrical connection, such as a USB
connector, an audio connector (TRS connector, digital optical audio
connector, etc.), a video connector (VGA, DVI, S-Video, etc.), an
audio/video connector (RCA, HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.), a data connector
(Firewire, eSATA, etc.), etc. In some of these embodiments, a shape of
receptacle connector 122, shape of pins housed by receptacle connector
122, etc. may operate to provide a resistance force upon disengaging
plugs from receptacle connector 122. In other embodiments, receptacle
connector 122 may include one or more magnetic elements that operate to
provide a resistance force upon disengaging receptacle connector 122 from
plugs that have corresponding magnetic elements.

[0047] Receptacle connector 122 may be located on any surface of
electronic computing device 110. In one embodiment, receptacle connector
122 is located on side surface 116. However, receptacle connector 122 may
be located on front surface 112, rear surface 114, any other side surface
116, etc. In some embodiments, a number of same or different receptacle
connectors 122 are provided on one or more surfaces of electronic
computing device 110.

[0048] Electronic computing device 110 may also include one or more
suitable processors and storage mediums (not shown). The storage medium
may be any suitable tangible non-transitory computer readable medium,
such as a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a
magnetic medium such as a hard-drive or a floppy disk, a Flash memory
device or SSD, or an optical medium such as a CD-ROM. The storage medium
may store software code for performing any of the functions described in
this application associated with electronic computing device 110. The
software code may be stored in any suitable language, such as Java,
Javascript, HTML, C, C++ or Perl using, for example, conventional or
object-oriented techniques. The software code may be stored as a series
of instructions or commands.

[0049] Removable user interface 150 is a user interface that can be
selectively coupled with electronic computing device 110. Removable user
interface 150 is further described with reference to FIGS. 2A to 9C. In
general, however, removable user interface 150 is operable to both
provide a user interface (e.g., for receiving user input and/or for
displaying information) and removably attach electronic computing device
110 to an object.

[0050] Removable user interface generally includes a body having a plug
(i.e., male connector) 152, a bend 153, and a user interface element 154,
where user interface element 154 is carried by the body in a user
interface area and may include one or more touch-sensitive regions (not
shown). At each touch-sensitive region, a tactile feedback element 156
such as a bump or groove may be provided. Plug 152 is located at an
engagement end of the body. Plug 152 is configured to mate with or
mechanically engage (including a magnetic engagement) with receptacle
connector 122 such that, when engaged in at least one orientation, an
electrical connection is established between user interface element 154
and electronic computing device 110. Further, when plug 152 is engaged
with receptacle connector 122, removable user interface 150 is operable
to function as a clip. That is, upon engagement, removable user interface
150 is operable to removably attach electronic computing device 110 to an
object, such as a person's clothes, backpack, bicycle, etc. Such
functionality may be achieved by the provision of bend 153 which, in one
embodiment, is located between the engagement end and the user interface
area, and enables user interface element 154 to wrap around a portion of
electronic device 110 when plug 152 is mated with connector 122.

[0051] In one embodiment, removable user interface 150 may be used to
control electronic computing device 110. In this case, user interface
element 154 may include touch-sensitive regions. Tactile feedback
elements 156 may also be provided to enable a user to locate the
touch-sensitive regions. Upon user-engagement with a tactile feedback
element 156, electronic computing device 110 may be controlled to perform
a particular function. In some embodiments, user interface element 154
may be transparent so that at least portions of digital display 118 are
visible through user interface element 154. In this way, function-related
information such as icons displayed on digital display 118 may be visible
to the user through user interface element 154 so that the user may
identify the function associated with each tactile feedback element 156.

[0052] In another embodiment, removable user interface 150 may be
controlled by electronic computing device 110. In this case, user
interface element 154 may include an electronic display. Electronic
computing device 110 may then be operable to display information to the
user via user interface element 154.

[0053] In other embodiments, removable user interface 150 may control
electronic computing device 110 and be controlled by electronic computing
device 110. For example, removable user interface 150 may be operable to
control electronic computing device 110 in response to user-engagement
with user interface element 154, and removable user interface 150 may be
operable to display information communicated by electronic computing
device 110.

[0054] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a portable electronic
system 200 having a removable user interface 150 coupled to an electronic
computing device 110 in a first orientation. According to this
embodiment, removable user interface 150 is coupled to electronic
computing device 110 such that removable user interface 150 extends over
at least a portion of digital display 118. Further, according to this
embodiment and further discussed embodiments, input element 120 is not
shown although such an element may be included.

[0055] Upon engaging removable user interface 150 with electronic
computing device 110, electronic computing device 110 may detect the
orientation in which removable user interface 150 is engaged with
electronic computing device 110. In this case, electronic computing
device 110 detects that removable user interface 150 is engaged such that
removable user interface 150 is disposed over at least a portion of
digital display 118. In some embodiments, removable user interface 150
may be disposed over the entire digital display 118. In other
embodiments, there may be no digital display 118.

[0056] In response to such a detection, electronic computing device 110
may display icons at locations of digital display 118 that correspond to
locations of touch-sensitive regions (e.g., where tactile feedback
elements 156 are located). An icon may indicate to a user a functionality
that electronic computing device 110 will perform in response to a
user-selection of the tactile feedback element corresponding to the icon.
For example, icon 124 ("B") may indicate a play function. In response to
a user engagement with that corresponding tactile feedback element, i.e.,
the tactile feedback element located above or proximate to icon 124,
electronic computing device 110 may perform the play function.

[0057] According to one embodiment, in response to detecting that
removable user interface 150 is engaged such that removable user
interface 150 is disposed over at least a portion of digital display 118,
electronic computing device 110 may change an existing display of
information. For example, before engagement of removable user interface
150, electronic computing device may display information such as an image
(such as that shown on digital display 118 in FIG. 1) corresponding to a
current song being played. In response to detecting engagement of
removable user interface 150 such that removable user interface 150 is
disposed over at least a portion of digital display 118, electronic
computing device 110 may move the existing image to a different location
of digital display 118. For example, electronic computing device 110 may
move the image to a location of digital display 118 not interfered with
by removable user interface 150, such as at a location below removable
user interface 150 (such as that shown on digital display 118 in FIG.
2A). The image may be moved to provide space to display user-input
information such as icons 124. In some embodiments, the existing display
is entirely replaced by user-input information such as icons 124.

[0058] By engaging removable user interface 150 with electronic computing
device 110 such that removable user interface 150 is disposed over at
least a portion of digital display 118, digital display 118 may
advantageously be protected from undesirable contact. Further, removable
user interface 150 may advantageously provide a touch-sensitive user
interface where such a user interface is otherwise not provided. In
embodiments where removable user interface 150 includes tactile feedback
elements 156, removable user interface 150 may advantageously assist
user-input where such assistance is not otherwise provided. In
embodiments where an electronic display is not provided on electronic
computing device 110, removable user interface 150 may advantageously
provide such a display. Further yet, by operating as a clip, removable
user interface 150 may advantageously enable attachment to objects, where
such attachment may not otherwise be provided.

[0059] FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of the portable electronic system
200 shown in FIG. 2A. From the side view, it is apparent that removable
user interface 150 may be disposed over only a portion of digital display
118. It is further apparent that user interface element 154 may include
one or more touch-sensitive regions 160.

[0061] Conductive element 158 may have any suitable arrangement, depending
on the operation of user interface element 154 (e.g., display
information, receive user input, etc.) and depending on the type of
technology used in user interface element 154 (e.g., capacitive touch
pad, LCD, etc.). In one embodiment, conductive element 158 may include a
plurality of conductive traces extending within removable user interface
150 from user interface element 154 to plug 152. The conductive traces
may extend all the way to touch-sensitive regions 160. Accordingly,
user-engagement with touch-sensitive regions 160 may result in electrical
signals being communicated to electronic computing device 110 via plug
152, where the electrical signals indicate a location on user interface
element 154 that a user touches. In another embodiment, user interface
element 154 may include an electronic display, and conductive element 158
may communicate electrical signals from electronic computing device 110
indicating information to be displayed on user interface element 154.

[0062] FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a portable electronic
system 200 having a removable user interface 150 coupled to an electronic
computing device 110 in a second orientation. According to this
embodiment, removable user interface 150 is coupled to electronic
computing device 110 such that removable user interface 150 extends over
a surface of electronic computing device 110 opposite a display surface.
For example, removable user interface 150 may extend over rear surface
114.

[0063] Upon engaging removable user interface 150 with electronic
computing device 110, electronic computing device 110 may detect the
orientation in which removable user interface 150 is engaged with
electronic computing device 110. In this case, electronic computing
device 110 detects that removable user interface 150 is engaged such that
removable user interface 150 is disposed over a surface other than one
including digital display 118; for example, rear surface 114. In some
embodiments, removable user interface 150 may be disposed over the entire
rear surface 114.

[0064] In one embodiment, removable user interface 150 may still be
operable to control electronic computing device 110 as previously
discussed with reference to FIG. 2A. In other embodiments, removable user
interface 150 may now be inoperable to control electronic computing
device 110. Similarly, in this orientation, electronic computing device
110 may or may not be operable to display information via removable user
interface 150.

[0065] According to one embodiment, in this orientation, electronic
computing device 110 may continue to display full-screen information such
as that discussed with reference to FIG. 1. In other embodiments,
existing display information may be moved, resized, or entirely removed,
and user-input information such as icons 124 may be displayed, similar to
the functionality discussed with reference to FIG. 2A. Also similar to
the discussion with reference to FIG. 2A, icons 124 may be displayed in
locations corresponding to locations of touch-sensitive regions (and/or
tactile feedback elements 156) of removable user interface 150.

[0066] By engaging removable user interface 150 with electronic computing
device 110 such that removable user interface 150 is disposed over a
surface other than one including digital display 118, removable user
interface 150 may advantageously enable attachment to objects without
interfering with digital display 118. Further, by providing tactile
feedback elements 156, removable user interface 150 may advantageously
assist user-input where such assistance is not otherwise provided.

[0067] FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of the portable electronic system
200 shown in FIG. 3A. From the side view, it is apparent that removable
user interface 150 may be disposed over only a portion of rear surface
114. It is further apparent that user interface element 154 may include
one or more touch-sensitive regions 160 as discussed with reference to
FIG. 2B.

[0068] In some embodiments, plug 152 and receptacle connector 122 may be
adapted to mate in only one orientation. For example, with reference to
FIGS. 2A and 2B, they may be adapted to mate in an orientation where
removable user interface 150 is disposed over a surface including digital
display 118. For another example, with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, they
may be adapted to mate in an orientation where removable user interface
150 is disposed over a surface other than one including digital display
118, such as rear surface 114.

[0069] FIGS. 4A to 4E show side views of removable user interface 150
having different shapes according to various embodiments. FIG. 4A shows a
removable user interface 150 having a side profile according to a first
embodiment. Removable user interface 150 according to this embodiment
includes a body 400. Body 400 may be made of any suitable solid material.
For example, body 400 may be made of metal, ceramic, polymers, composite
materials, etc. Body 400 may also include suitable materials for
providing an electronic display and/or touch pad. Some examples of body
400 and its relation to user interface materials are discussed with
reference to FIGS. 9A to 9C. In this embodiment, body 400 may be user
interface element 154, may be separate from user interface element 154,
or may include user interface element 154, where user interface element
154 is located at a user interface area of body 400.

[0070] Body 400 includes an interface portion 402, a bend portion 403, and
an engagement end 406. Interface portion 402 is for providing a user
interface, and as such may include user interface element 154. Bend
portion 403 is for enabling interface portion 402 to wrap around a
portion of an electronic device when body 400 is coupled to the
electronic device. Engagement end 406 is for coupling removable user
interface 150 to electronic computing device 110. A plug 408
(corresponding to plug 152) is located at engagement end 406, such that
plug 408 may engage receptacle connector 122.

[0071] Interface portion 402 includes a number of surfaces. For example,
interface portion 402 includes a top surface 410 and a bottom surface
412. Upon engaging removable user interface 150 with electronic computing
device 110, top surface 410 may be exposed to a user so as to receive
user input, and bottom surface 412 may face a surface (e.g., top surface
112) of electronic computing device 110.

[0072] Bend portion 403 may be any suitable portion for arranging
interface portion 402 substantially parallel to a surface (e.g., front
surface 112) of electronic computing device 110 when removable user
interface 150 is engaged with electronic computing device 110. For
example, as shown in FIG. 4A, bend portion 403 may be curved at an angle
of approximately 180 degrees such that interface portion 402 is
substantially parallel to plug 406. Bend portion 403 may be curved at
other suitable angles that provide such a parallel arrangement upon
coupling; for example, it may be curved at an angle of 175 degrees, 178
degrees, 182 degrees, 185 degrees, or in a range from 175 degrees to 185
degrees, or greater than 185 degrees or less than 175 degrees.

[0073] FIG. 4B shows a removable user interface 150 having a side profile
according to a second embodiment. Removable user interface 150 according
to this embodiment is similar to that discussed with reference to FIG.
4A, with the exception of bend portion 403.

[0074] Bend portion 403 according to this embodiment is square-shaped
rather than curved. That is, bend portion 403 includes a first portion
403a arranged substantially perpendicular to interface portion 402, and a
second portion 403b arranged substantially perpendicular to first portion
404a. As a result of providing plug 408 on second portion 403b, interface
portion 402 may be oriented substantially parallel to a surface (e.g.,
front surface 112) of electronic computing device 110 when removable user
interface 150 is engaged with electronic computing device 110.

[0075] FIG. 4C shows a removable user interface 150 having a side profile
according to a third embodiment. Removable user interface 150 according
to this embodiment is similar to that discussed with reference to FIG.
4B, with the exception of first portion 403a.

[0076] First portion 403a of bend portion 403 according to this embodiment
is at an acute angle with respect to bottom surface 412. Second portion
403b is at an obtuse angle with respect to first portion 403a. Any
suitable angles may be used so that interface portion 402 is oriented
substantially parallel to a surface (e.g., front surface 112) of
electronic computing device 110 when removable user interface 150 is
engaged with electronic computing device 110. For example, the acute
angle may be 45 degrees, and the obtuse angle may be 135 degrees. Any
other combinations that sum to approximately 180 degrees (or 175 degrees,
178 degrees, etc.) may be used, and one skilled in the art could readily
derive such combinations.

[0077] FIG. 4D shows a removable user interface 150 having a side profile
according to a fourth embodiment. Removable user interface 150 according
to this embodiment is similar to that discussed with reference to FIG.
4A, except that in this embodiment bend portion 403 includes a first
portion 403a, a rotatable element 403b, and a second portion 403c. First
portion 403a in this embodiment is a curve of approximately 90 degrees.
Rotatable element 403b rotatably couples first portion 403a to second
portion 403c and may be any suitable element operable to perform such
coupling. For example, rotatable element 403b may be a hinge.
Accordingly, by its combination of elements, bend portion 403 is operable
to orient interface portion 402 substantially parallel to a surface
(e.g., front surface 112) of electronic computing device 110 when
removable user interface 150 is engaged with electronic computing device
110.

[0078] Any suitable combination of curved portions, straight portions, and
rotatable elements may be employed so as to orient interface portion 402
substantially parallel to a surface of electronic computing device 110.
For example, first portion 403a may have any suitable angle of curvature,
such as 85 degrees, 95 degrees, or in a range from 85 degrees to 95
degrees, or greater than 95 degrees or less than 85 degrees. For another
example, second portion 403c may also include one or more curves at any
suitable angle. For yet another example, first portion 403a may be
straight or include straight portions. One skilled in the art would
recognize the various combinations of curved and straight portions
possible and the suitable amount of curvature required, and all such
combinations are within the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0079] Further, in one embodiment, bend portion 403 is operable to apply a
tension force between interface portion 402 and engagement end 406. For
example, rotatable element 403b may be or may include a spring.
Accordingly, with reference to FIG. 3B, when plug 408 is connected to
receptacle connector 122, interface portion 402 may apply a force toward
rear surface 114.

[0080] FIG. 4E shows a removable user interface 150 having a side profile
according to a fifth embodiment. Removable user interface 150 according
to this embodiment is similar to that discussed with reference to FIG.
4D, except that in this embodiment bend portion 403 includes multiple
rotatable elements. In this case, bend portion 403 includes a first
rotatable element 403a, a first portion 403b, a second rotatable element
403c, and a second portion 403d. Similar to the embodiments discussed
with reference to FIG. 4D, any suitable combination of curved portions,
straight portions, and rotatable elements may be employed so as to orient
interface portion 402 substantially parallel to a surface of electronic
computing device 110. This may include employing curves within one or
more of first portion 403b and second portion 403d.

[0081] First rotatable element 403a and second rotatable element 403b may
have the same or different angles of rotation. In one embodiment, first
rotatable element 403a and second rotatable element 403b are configured
such that interface portion 402 is nearly 360 degrees rotatable about
plug 408. As a result, in a first orientation, bottom surface 412 may be
arranged to face front surface 112 of electronic computing device 110,
and in a second orientation, top surface 410 may be arranged to face rear
surface 114 of electronic computing device.

[0082] Although the embodiments discussed with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4E
clearly delineate interface portion 402 from bend portion 403, in some
embodiments such a delineation is not necessary. That is, a portion of
interface portion 402 may extend into bend portion 403. For example, with
reference to FIG. 4A, a portion of user interface element 154 may extend
at least partially around the curved surface of bend portion 403. For
another example, with reference to FIG. 4E, a portion of user interface
element 154 may be located on or located in or extend to at least one of
first portion 403b and second portion 403d.

[0083] FIGS. 5A to 5D show side views of removable user interface 150
having different types of tactile feedback elements according to various
embodiments. FIG. 5A shows a removable user interface 150 having tactile
feedback elements 156 according to a first embodiment. Removable user
interface includes body 500, top surface 510, and bottom surface 512,
similar to those discussed with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4E.

[0084] According to this embodiment, removable user interface 150 includes
one tactile feedback element 156 for each touch-sensitive region 160.
Each tactile feedback element 156 is located directly above a
corresponding touch-sensitive region 160. The tactile feedback element
156 protrudes from top surface 510 of body 500. Tactile feedback element
156 may have any suitable shape, including square, rectangular, circular,
oval, etc. Tactile feedback element 156 may protrude from top surface 510
any amount sufficient to be recognizable by touch. For example, tactile
feedback element 156 may protrude by 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2
mm, in a range from 0.75 mm to 1.25 mm, or an amount less than 0.75 mm or
greater than 1.25 mm.

[0085] In one embodiment, each tactile feedback element 156 may be formed
from material separate from body 150, and as such may subsequently be
bonded to top surface 510. In other embodiments, the tactile feedback
elements 156 are formed as part of body 500, and thus may be formed by
top surface 510. Tactile feedback elements 156 may be made of any
suitable material. For example, they may be made of a solid material such
as glass, ceramic, plastic, etc.

[0086] According to one embodiment, one or more tactile feedback elements
156 may operate to magnify images. For example, when removable user
interface 150 is engaged with electronic computing device 110 such that
user interface element 154 extends over at least a portion of digital
display 118, tactile feedback elements 156 may be configured to enlarge
information (such as icons) displayed on digital display 118.

[0087] FIG. 5B shows a removable user interface 150 having tactile
feedback elements according to a second embodiment. This embodiment is
similar to that discussed above with reference to FIG. 5A. However, in
this embodiment, a plurality of tactile feedback elements 156 are grouped
together and correspond to a single touch-sensitive region 160. The
plurality of tactile feedback elements 156 corresponding to a single
touch-sensitive region 160 may be grouped in any suitable shape, such as
a circle, square, rectangle, oval, etc., and each may have any suitable
shape, similar to those discussed above with reference to FIG. 5A.
Further, each tactile feedback element in the plurality of feedback
elements 156 may protrude from top surface 112 any suitable amount, such
as 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, in a range from 0.1 mm to 0.3 mm, less than
0.1 mm, or greater than 0.3 mm. The groupings of tactile feedback
elements 156 may have the same or different shapes, and numerous
variations would be recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0088] FIG. 5C shows a removable user interface 150 having tactile
feedback elements 156 according to a third embodiment. This embodiment is
similar to that discussed above with reference to FIG. 5A. However, in
this embodiment, tactile feedback elements 156 are cutouts from body 500.
For example, tactile feedback elements 156 may be cutout from top surface
510. Similar to the embodiment discussed above with reference to FIG. 5A,
the cutouts may be cut out to any suitable depth, and have any suitable
shape. Similar to the embodiment discussed above with reference to FIG.
5B, a plurality of cutouts may be provided for each touch-sensitive
region 160, where the plurality has any suitable depth and shape.

[0089] FIG. 5D shows a removable user interface 150 having tactile
feedback elements according to a fourth embodiment. This embodiment is
similar to that discussed above with reference to FIG. 5A. However, in
this embodiment, tactile feedback elements 156 are provided on both top
surface 510 and bottom surface 512. The tactile feedback elements 156
located on bottom surface 512 may be arranged below corresponding
touch-sensitive regions 160. In some embodiments, tactile feedback
elements 156 on top surface 510 may be any of those discussed with
reference to FIGS. 5A to 5C.

[0090] Tactile feedback elements 156 located on bottom surface 512 may
provide one or more functions. For example, where body 500 includes one
or more rotatable elements such as those discussed with reference to
FIGS. 4D and 4E, tactile feedback elements 156 located on bottom surface
512 may be used to provide feedback to a user when removable user
interface 150 is rotated. For another example, such tactile feedback
elements may provide stops to prevent body 500 from directly contacting a
surface of electronic computing device 110. In such a case, tactile
feedback elements 156 may be made of material that is softer than the
material which electronic display 118 is made of. For example, they may
be made of at least one of silicon, rubber, cloth, soft plastic, etc.

[0091] Although FIGS. 5A to 5D show various embodiments that include
tactile feedback elements 156, in some embodiments, removable user
interface 150 does not have any tactile feedback elements 156.

[0092] FIGS. 6A to 6D show top views of removable user interface 150
having different shapes according to various embodiments. FIG. 6A shows a
top surface 610 of a removable user interface 150 according to a first
embodiment. Top surface 610 is similar to that previously discussed with
reference to FIGS. 4A to 5D.

[0093] Top surface includes a first end 612 and a second end 614. In one
embodiment, first end 612 is an end nearest plug 152, and second end 614
is opposite first end 612. In another embodiment, second end 614 is an
end nearest plug 152, and first end 612 is opposite second end 614. Top
surface also includes a first side surface 616 and a second side surface
618 arranged opposite one another.

[0094] In this embodiment, top surface 610 has a square or rectangular
shape. Accordingly, first end 612 and second end 614 are arranged
parallel to one another, as are first side surface 616 and second side
surface 618. A width W of top surface 610 and a height H of top surface
610 may be any suitable width and length. For example, the width and
height may be 30 mm, 35 mm, 40 mm, or in a range from 30 to 40 mm, or
less than 30 mm, or greater than 40 mm. The width and height may be the
same or different from one another.

[0095] Tactile feedback elements 156 may have any suitable shape, as
previously discussed, and may have any suitable size. For example, they
may each have a diameter of 5 mm, 7.5 mm, 10 mm, or in a range from 5 mm
to 10 mm, or less than 5 mm, or greater than 10 mm. The number of tactile
feedback elements provided may be any suitable number. For example, one,
two, or greater than two may be provided. Tactile feedback elements 156
may be arranged in any suitable pattern. In this embodiment, two columns
of three tactile feedback elements 156 are provided.

[0096] FIG. 6B shows a top surface 610 of a removable user interface 150
according to a second embodiment. This embodiment is similar to that
discussed with reference to FIG. 6A. However, in this embodiment, first
side surface 616 and second side surface 618 include a first cutout
portion 616a and a second cutout portion 618a, respectively. Any number
of portions may be cutout from one or more of the side surfaces, and they
may be cutout at any suitable angle or in any suitable shape.

[0097]FIG. 6c shows a top surface 610 of a removable user interface 150
according to a third embodiment. This embodiment is similar to that
discussed above with reference to FIG. 6A. However, in this embodiment,
first side surface 616 and second side surface 618 are tapered from first
end 612 to second end 614. One or more of the side surfaces may be
tapered, and they may be tapered at any suitable angle.

[0098] FIG. 6D shows a top surface 610 of a removable user interface 150
according to a fourth embodiment. This embodiment is similar to that
discussed above with reference to FIG. 6A. However, in this embodiment,
first side surface 616 and second side surface 618 are curved between
first end 612 and second end 614. One or more of the side surfaces may be
curved, and they may be curved to any suitable degree.

[0099] Numerous variations on the shape of top surface 610, number of
tactile feedback elements 156, and arrangement of tactile feedback
elements 156 would be recognized by one skilled in the art, and all such
variations are within the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0100] FIGS. 7A to 7C show a cross-section of plug 152 according to
various embodiments. FIG. 7A shows a cross-section of plug 152 according
to a first embodiment. Plug 152 has any shape, surfaces, and size
suitable to engage and mate with a receptacle connector such as
receptacle connector 122. For example, plug 152 may be a 30-pin
connector, a magnetic connector, a USB connector, an audio connector (TRS
connector, digital optical audio connector, etc.), a video connector
(VGA, DVI, S-Video, etc.), an audio/video connector (RCA, HDMI,
DisplayPort, etc.), a data connector (Firewire, eSATA, etc.), etc. In
some of these embodiments, a shape of plug 152, shape of pins housed by
plug 152, provision of locking mechanisms in plug 152, etc. may operate
to provide a resistance force upon disengaging plug 152 from receptacle
connector 122. In other embodiments, plug 152 may include one or more
magnetic elements that operate to provide a resistance force upon
disengaging plug 152 from receptacle connectors that have corresponding
magnetic elements.

[0101] In this embodiment, plug 152 has a plurality of surfaces including
a top surface 700, a bottom surface 702, and side surfaces 704. Top
surface 700 is arranged opposite bottom surface 702, and side surfaces
704 are arranged opposite each other.

[0102] Plug 152 includes one or more contact electrodes 706 arranged on
top surface 700. Contact electrodes 706 may have any suitable shape and
size for engaging with receptacle electrodes provided in receptacle
connector 122. For example, contact electrodes 706 may be in the shape of
a pin. Contact electrodes 706 may be made of any suitable conductive
material, including one or more metals or metal alloys such as copper,
aluminum, nickel, tin, magnesium, gold, etc.

[0104] Plug 152 may include one or more securing elements 708. Securing
elements 708 may have any shape, surfaces, and size suitable to lock plug
152 to receptacle connector 122 upon engagement. Plug 152 may be released
from receptacle connector 122 in any suitable fashion such as, e.g.,
user-activation of a release pin (not shown). In this embodiment,
securing elements 708 are provided on side surfaces 704, however, they
may be provided on any suitable surface of plug 152.

[0105]FIG. 7B shows a cross-section of plug 152 according to a second
embodiment. Plug 152 according to this embodiment is similar to that
discussed with reference to FIG. 7A. However, in this embodiment, contact
electrodes 706 are also provided on bottom surface 702 of plug 152. Some
functionality associated with providing contact electrodes 706 on top
surface 700 and/or bottom surface 702 of plug 152 is further discussed
with reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, and FIGS. 11A and 11B.

[0106] FIG. 7C shows a cross-section of plug 152 according to a third
embodiment. According to this embodiment, plug 152 includes electrode 706
which is a TRS connector (i.e., an audio jack) as well as various
surfaces such as those discussed with reference to FIG. 7A. TRS connector
706 may extend from plug 152 further than other surfaces. With reference
to FIG. 4A, TRS connector 706 may extend from engagement end 406 by a
predefined distance sufficient to enable the TRS connector 706 to fully
engage and mate with receptacle connector 122. For example, TRS connector
706 may extend from engagement end 406 by 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, or
in a range from 2.5 mm to 4 mm, or greater than 4 mm. In this case, the
other surfaces of plug 152 (such as top surface 700, bottom surface 702,
and side surfaces 704) are flush with engagement end 406. Accordingly,
TRS connector 706 extends from those other surfaces by the aforementioned
amounts. Similar to the embodiment discussed above with reference to FIG.
7A, TRS connector 706 is mechanically and electrically coupled to
conductive element 158.

[0107] FIGS. 8A and 8B show a receptacle connector 800 and a plug 850
suitable for bi-orientation mating according to an embodiment.
Bi-orientation mating refers to the ability of plug 850 to connect to
receptacle connector 800 in two orientations rather than a single
orientation.

[0108] FIG. 8A shows a cross section of a receptacle connector 800
according to an embodiment. Receptacle connector 800 may correspond to
receptacle connector 122 previously discussed with reference to FIG. 1.
Receptacle connector 800 is any suitable connector for establishing an
electrical connection as previously discussed with reference to FIG. 1.
In this embodiment, receptacle connector includes a housing 802. Housing
802 has an interior cavity 804, in which one or more receptacle
electrodes 806 are provided. Housing 802 includes a number of surfaces
defining interior cavity 804, such as an upper surface 808, a lower
surface 810, and side surfaces 812.

[0109] Receptacle electrodes 806 may have any suitable shape and size for
engaging with contact electrodes provided in plug 408. For example,
receptacle electrodes 806 may be in the shape of a pin. Receptacle
electrodes 806 may be made of any suitable conductive material, including
one or more metals or metal alloys such as copper, aluminum, nickel, tin,
magnesium, gold, etc., and are operable to communicate electrical signals
between electronic computing device 110 and other devices such as
removable user interface 150.

[0110] Side surfaces 812 are shaped so that corresponding plugs may only
mate with receptacle connector 800 in a single orientation. For example,
a corresponding plug generally has side surfaces corresponding to the
shape of side surfaces 812. In this fashion, pins provided in the typical
corresponding plug necessarily contact receptacle electrodes 806 upon
engagement in only one orientation.

[0111] Interior cavity 804 includes a first portion 804a that is in the
shape of a rectangle having a width W and height H, and a second portion
804b that includes portions of cavity excluded by first portion 814.
First portion 804a is defined in part by upper surface 808 and lower
surface 810. Second portion 804b is defined in part by side surfaces 812.
Second portion 804b generally serves to force a single-orientation
connection since the shape of second portion 804b is not symmetrical
about a horizontal axis extending along width W. However, first portion
804a may facilitate a dual-orientation connection since first portion
804a is in the shape of a rectangle, and thus has a symmetrical shape
about the horizontal axis.

[0112] FIG. 8B shows a cross section of a plug 850 suitable to connect
with receptacle connector 800 of FIG. 8A in two orientations. Plug 850 is
identical to that discussed with reference to FIG. 7B, and includes a
housing 852. Housing 852 has an interior cavity 854, in which one or more
plug electrodes 856 are provided. Housing 852 includes a number of
surfaces defining interior cavity 854, such as an upper surface 858, a
lower surface 860, and side surfaces 862.

[0113] Plug electrodes 856 may have any suitable shape and size for
engaging with receptacle electrodes provided in receptacle connector 800,
may be made of any suitable conductive material, and are operable to
communicate electrical signals between removable user interface 150 and
other devices such as electronic computing device 110.

[0114] Body 852 is shaped so as to mate with receptacle connector 800 in
two orientations. In the first orientation, top surface 858 contacts or
is proximate to upper surface 808. In the second orientation, top surface
858 contacts or is proximate to lower surface 810. Body 852 has the same
symmetrical shape as the first portion 804a of cavity 804. That is, body
852 has a rectangular shape having a width W and a height H. Further,
body 852 defines cavity 854 such that receptacle electrodes 806 can enter
into cavity 854 upon engagement in either orientation. In this
embodiment, electrodes 856 are provided on or proximate to both top
surface 858 and bottom surface 860, such that at least some of electrodes
856 will contact receptacle electrodes 806 upon engagement in either
orientation.

[0115] Accordingly, plug 850 is suitable to connect with receptacle
connector 800 in multiple orientations. In the first orientation, contact
electrodes 856 provided on or adjacent to bottom surface 860 contact
receptacle electrodes 806 upon engaging plug 850 with connector 800. In
the second orientation, contact electrodes 856 provided on or adjacent to
top surface 858 contact receptacle electrodes 806 upon engaging plug 850
with connector.

[0116] In other embodiments, plug 850 may include contact electrodes 856
on only one surface, such as on top surface 858 such as that discussed
with reference to FIG. 7A. In such a case, in the first orientation,
contact electrodes 856 would not contact receptacle electrodes 806 upon
engaging plug 850 with connector 800, and in the second orientation
contact electrodes 856 would contact receptacle electrodes 806 upon
engaging plug 850 with connector 800.

[0117] Receptacle connector 800 and plug 850 may be designed to engage one
another in a number of different ways for multiple orientation
engagement, and may even be designed to engage one another in more than
two orientations. For example, receptacle connector 800 may have a
square-shaped cavity 804 rather than rectangular, with electrodes
arranged on one or more sides of the connector defining the cavity. Plug
850 may then have a corresponding square shape, with electrodes arranged
on one or more sides of the plug defining the cavity. In this fashion, up
to four different connector orientations may be possible. One skilled in
the art may readily derive various connector and plug shapes for various
numbers of orientations, and all are within the scope of the embodiments
disclosed herein.

[0118] FIGS. 9A to 9C show profile views of removable user interface 150
according to various embodiments. These embodiments illustrate the use of
various technology for enabling removable user interface 150 to display
information and/or receive user input.

[0119] FIG. 9A shows a profile view of removable user interface 150
according to a first embodiment. According to this embodiment, removable
user interface 150 may include a capacitive touch pad.

[0120] Removable user interface 150 includes a body 900 having a bend 901,
an engagement end 902, and a plug 904 located at the engagement end 902.
Body 900 includes a conductive layer 906 which may be made from any
suitable conductive material, for example, a transparent conductor such
as indium tin oxide. Body 900 also includes an insulating layer 908,
where insulating layer 908 may be made of any suitable insulating
material, for example, a transparent insulator such as glass. Spacing
elements (not shown) such as non-conductive separator dots may be
provided between conductive layer 906 and insulating layer 908. A
capacitive touch pad may thereby be formed via the interface between
conductive layer 906 and insulating layer 908.

[0121] In this embodiment, the combined conductive layer 906 and
insulating layer 908 may provide a user interface element similar to the
previously discussed user interface element 154. Numerous techniques may
be used to communicate changes in capacitance from the capacitive touch
pad to plug 904, where plug 904 may correspond to the previously
discussed plug 152. For example, conductive elements (not shown) may
extend from the corners of the capacitive touch pad to plug 904, and
electronic computing device 110 may calculate the location of a users
touch based on the voltages provided from each corner. For another
example, conductive layer 906 may be etched with a grid pattern for some
or all of the surface contacting insulating layer 908 so as to form a
grid pattern of electrodes. The grid pattern may then be electrically
coupled to plug 904, and electronic computing device 110 may calculate
the location of a users touch based on the voltages provided from the
grid pattern. For yet another example, grid pattern electrodes may be
provided only at predetermined locations of the capacitive touch pad,
such as at locations corresponding to tactile feedback elements 156.

[0122] FIG. 9B shows a profile view of removable user interface 150
according to a second embodiment. According to this embodiment, removable
user interface 150 may include a removable capacitive touch pad.

[0123] Removable user interface 150 includes a body 900 having a bend 901,
an engagement end 902, and a plug 904 located at the engagement end 902.
Body 900 includes a frame 910 having an aperture 912 formed therethrough.
Frame 910 may be made of any suitable solid material, such as metal,
ceramic, polymers, composite materials, etc. Aperture 912 is sized and
shaped to receive a user interface element such as a capacitive touch pad
914. Capacitive touch pad 914 includes a conductive layer 916, insulating
layer 918, and spacing elements similar to those discussed with reference
to FIG. 9A.

[0124] Capacitive touch pad 914 is sized and shaped to fit into aperture
912. Touch pad 914 may have a friction fit with aperture 912, and/or may
be bonded to frame 910. Numerous techniques may be used to communicate
changes in capacitance from capacitive touch pad 914 to plug 904, similar
to those discussed above with reference to FIG. 9A.

[0125] FIG. 9C shows a profile view of removable user interface 150
according to a third embodiment. According to this embodiment, a
capacitive touch pad is coupled to an engagement end of removable user
interface 150.

[0126] Removable user interface 150 includes a body 900 having a bend 901,
an engagement end 902, and a plug 904 located at the engagement end 902.
Body 900 includes a conductive layer 906 and an insulating layer 908
similar to those discussed with reference to FIG. 9A, which form a
capacitive touch pad 914. In this embodiment, however, engagement end 902
is different than conductive layer 906. Bend 901 of body 900 may be made
of any suitable material as discussed above with reference to frame 910.
Further, touch pad 914 is bonded to bend 901. Numerous techniques may be
used to communicate changes in capacitance from capacitive touch pad 914
to plug 904, similar to those discussed above with reference to FIG. 9A.

[0127] Although the embodiments discussed above with reference to FIGS. 9A
to 9C are discussed in the context of capacitive touch pads, any suitable
components for displaying information and/or receiving user may be
provided in place of the capacitive touch pad. For example, a resistive
touch pad could be provided in place of capacitive touch pad 914. For
another example, an LCD could be provided in place of capacitive touch
pad 914. For yet another example, suitable layers for forming an LCD
could be provided above or below capacitive touch pad 914. Various
replacements and combinations are understandable by those skilled in the
art, and all such replacements and combinations are within the scope of
the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0128] FIG. 10 illustrates a portable electronic system 1000 according to
a second embodiment. Portable electronic system 1000 includes an
electronic computing device 110, a cable 130 for establishing an
electrical connection with electronic computing device 110, and a
removable user interface 151. Electronic computing device 110 may be the
same as that previously discussed, and removable user interface 151 may
be the same as previously discussed removable user interface 150. In one
embodiment, removable user interface 151 does not include bend 153. In
general, removable user interface 151 may be operable to control
electronic computing device 110 via cable 130.

[0129] Cable 130 includes a cable connector 132 which may be, for example,
a receptacle connector similar to the previously discussed receptacle
connector 122. In this case, cable connector 132 includes a housing 132a
defining a cavity 132b, where cavity 132b includes one or more receptacle
electrodes similar to those previously discussed for receptacle connector
122. Cable connector 132 also includes internal circuitry for interfacing
cable 130 with the receptacle electrodes, such that an electrical
connection may be established between electronic computing device 110 and
removable user interface 151. Similarly, removable user interface 151
includes the previously discussed plug 152, operable to mate with and
establish an electrical connection with cable connector 132.

[0130] Cable 130 may also include one or more audio output elements 140
that are operable to output audio signals. For example, audio output
elements 140 may be speakers. Audio output elements 140 are electrically
connected to cable 130 such that an electrical connection is established
between electronic computing device 110 and audio output elements 140 via
cable connector 132. Audio output elements 140 are located at an end of
cable 130 opposite an end connectable to electronic computing device 110.
The end connectable to electronic computing device 151 may include any
suitable connector 142 for connecting to electronic computing device 110.
For example, connector 142 may be an audio connector. Cable connector 132
is located between the end of cable 130 at which audio output elements
140 are located and the end of cable 130 that is connectable to
electronic computing device 110.

[0131] As mentioned, removable user interface 151 may be the same as
previously discussed removable user interface. For example, removable
user interface 151 may have a side profile such as that discussed with
reference to FIGS. 4A to 4E. Similar to that discussed above, removable
user interface 151 may be operable to control electronic computing device
110, and electronic computing device 110 may be operable to control
removable user interface 151.

[0132] FIG. 11A shows a first portion of a method 1100 of operating
electronic computing device 110 according to an embodiment. In operation
1102, electronic computing device 110 monitors a connector of electronic
computing device 110. For example, electronic computing device 110 may
monitor the previously discussed connector 122. In one embodiment,
monitoring is performed by checking electrical voltage, current, and/or
resistance at the electrical conductors (e.g., pins) housed in connector
122 at predetermined intervals.

[0133] In operation 1104, electronic computing device 110 determines
whether an external device is connected. For example, electronic
computing device 110 may determine whether an external device such as
removable user interface 150 is connected to electronic computing device
110 via connector 122. Any suitable technique for determining whether an
external device is connected may be used. In one embodiment, this
determination may be made by recognizing a change in at least one of
electrical voltage, current, and/or resistance at the electrical
conductors housed in connector 122. For example, when the resistance at
one of the electrical conductors housed in connector 122 changes from a
first resistance to a second predetermined resistance, electronic
computing device 110 may determine that an external device is connected.
If electronic computing device 110 determines that an external device is
not connected, electronic computing device returns to operation 1102 and
continues to monitor a connector. If, on the other hand, electronic
computing device 110 determines that an external device is connected,
electronic computing device performs operation 1106.

[0134] In operation 1106, electronic computing device 110 attempts to
identify the connected external device. Any suitable technique for device
identification may be performed. In one embodiment, upon connection the
external device sends a device identifier, which is a data packet
indicating an identify of the external device. Electronic computing
device 110 may compare the received device identifier with pre-stored
identifiers. If there is a match, then electronic computing device 110
successfully identifies the external device. If there is no match, then
electronic computing device 110 does not successfully identify the
external device. In another embodiment, the external device may have
unique characteristics, such as a unique pin arrangement, resistance,
voltage response characteristic, etc. Electronic computing device 110 may
store information associating such characteristics with device
identifiers. Accordingly, upon connection, electronic computing device
110 may identify the external device by comparing any recognized
characteristics with the pre-stored characteristics.

[0135] If electronic computing device 110 can not identify the external
device, processing may continue with operation 1108. In operation 1108,
electronic computing device 110 may issue a visual and/or audio error
message indicating that it does not recognize the external device. If, on
the other hand, electronic computing device 110 identifies the external
device, processing may continue with operation 1110. In some embodiments,
processing continues with operation 1110 only if the external device
identified is a removable user interface. For example, processing may
continue only if the external device identified is the previously
discussed removable user interface 150.

[0136] In operation 1110, electronic computing device 110 attempts to
determine the orientation of the external device. Numerous techniques may
be used for determining the orientation of the external device. In one
embodiment, the orientation may be determined by the pin connections. For
example, with reference to FIG. 7A, the external device may only have
pins on one surface of its connector. Accordingly, electronic computing
device 110, which also only has pins on one surface of its connector, may
determine the orientation based on whether the pins of the external
device contact the pins of electronic computing device 110. For another
example, with reference to FIG. 7B, the external device may have pins on
both surfaces of its connector, but the pins may be at different spacings
with respect to one another such that the pins of the external device
contact different pins of electronic computing device 110 based on the
orientation of the connection. In another embodiment, the orientation may
be determined based on variable characteristics of the external device.
For example, with reference with FIG. 4D, a resistance of removable user
interface 150 may change based on an rotational position of rotatable
element 403b. Electronic computing device 110 may determine the
orientation by measuring the resistance of removable user interface 150.
Accordingly, electronic computing device 110 may determine the
orientation by detecting a rotation of the external device relative to
electronic computing device 110.

[0137] If electronic computing device 110 cannot determine an orientation
of the external device, processing may continue with operation 1112. In
operation 1112, electronic computing device 110 enables remote control
via the external device. That is, electronic computing device 110 may
execute functionality in response to a user-interaction with the external
device. In some embodiments, remote control is enabled only if the
external device identified is a removable user interface.

[0138] If electronic computing device 110 determines an orientation of the
external device, processing may continue with operation 1114. In
operation 1114, electronic computing device 110 determines whether the
external device covers at least a portion of an electronic display such
as digital display 118. Such a determination may be made based on the
determined orientation. That is, each orientation may be pre-associated
with information indicating whether the device covers at least a portion
of digital display 118. Accordingly, upon determining the orientation,
electronic computing device 110 may read stored information associated
with the orientation indicating whether the device covers at least a
portion of digital display 118.

[0139] If electronic computing device 110 determines that the external
device does not cover any part of digital display 118, processing may
continue with operation 1112. In operation 1112, electronic computing
device 110 enables remote control via the external device. That is,
electronic computing device 110 may execute functionality in response to
a user-interaction with the external device. In some embodiments, remote
control is enabled only if the external device identified is a removable
user interface.

[0140] If electronic computing device 110 determines that the external
device covers at least a portion of digital display 118, processing may
continue with operation 1116, as shown in FIG. 11B. In operation 1116,
electronic computing device 110 displays icons at locations corresponding
to tactile feedback elements of the external device. In one embodiment,
electronic computing device 110 may store location information for each
external device, where the location information indicates locations of
tactile feedback elements relative to digital display 118. Upon
identifying the external device, electronic computing device 110 may read
the stored location information to determine the locations of tactile
feedback elements. Electronic computing device 110 may then display
information such as icons at locations of digital display 118 that
correspond to the tactile feedback elements. For example, the icons may
be located below the tactile feedback elements. Accordingly, the icons
may be visible to a user via the tactile feedback elements.

[0141] In operation 1118, electronic computing device 110 detects
user-engagement of a tactile feedback element. Such detection may be made
as a result of a close proximity between the tactile feedback element and
a touch-sensitive region. Any suitable technique for detecting the
location of a user's touch may be used. For example, as previously
discussed, techniques for capacitive touch pads, resistive touch pads,
etc. may be used. In response to detecting user-engagement of a tactile
feedback element, processing may continue with operation 1120.

[0142] In operation 1120, electronic computing device 110 executes
functionality associated with the icon corresponding to the tactile
feedback element engaged by the user. For example, the icon may show a
`play song` icon, and the icon may be visible via a tactile feedback
element. Upon user-engagement with that tactile feedback element,
electronic computing device 110 may execute functionality to play a song.

[0143] An example is now provided with reference to some of the previously
discussed embodiments. With reference to FIG. 1, while removable user
interface 150 is not connected to electronic computing device 110,
electronic computing device 110 may continue to operate as normal, while
simultaneously monitoring connector 122. Upon connecting removable user
interface 150 to electronic computing device 110, electronic computing
device 110 may determine that an external device is connected, and
subsequently identify the external device as removable user interface
150.

[0144] With reference to FIG. 2A, electronic computing device 110 may
determine that removable user interface 150 is connected to electronic
computing device 110 in an orientation where removable user interface 150
covers at least a part of digital display 118. Electronic computing
device 110 may then determine the locations where tactile feedback
elements 156 are relative to digital display 118. Electronic computing
device 110 may then display icons (e.g., A, B, C, D, E, and F) on digital
display 118 in locations corresponding to locations of tactile feedback
elements 156. In this fashion, the icons may be visible through tactile
feedback elements 156. A user may then touch a tactile feedback element.
For example, a user may touch a tactile feedback element corresponding to
letter D. In response, electronic computing device 110 may then perform a
functionality associated with the letter D.

[0145] With reference to FIG. 3A, electronic computing device 110 may
determine that removable user interface 150 is connected to electronic
computing device 110 in an orientation where removable user interface 150
does not cover any portion of digital display 118. In this case,
electronic computing device 110 does not necessarily change the
information on digital display 118, and may allow control of electronic
computing device 110 via removable user interface 150.

[0146] Various embodiments for removable user interfaces and electronic
computing devices according to the present invention have been described.
While these inventions have been described in the context of the above
specific embodiments, many modifications and variations are possible. For
example, in one embodiment and with reference to FIG. 1, digital display
118 may display information and/or receive user inputs. For example,
digital display 118 may be a touch pad display operable to both display
information and receive user inputs, and could be any suitable touch pad,
such as a resistive touch pad, a capacitive touch pad, etc. The above
description is therefore for illustrative purposes and is not intended to
be limiting. Also, references to top or bottom, or front and back of the
various structures described above are relative and are used
interchangeably depending on the point of reference. Similarly,
dimensions and sizes provided throughout the above description are for
illustrative purposes only and the inventive concepts described herein
can be applied to structures with different dimensions. Accordingly, the
scope and breadth of the present invention should not be limited by the
specific embodiments described above and should instead be determined by
the following claims and their full extend of equivalents.